Looking for a fun and festive manicure to get you in the holiday spirit? Look no further than candy cane nails! The classic red, white, and sometimes green swirls are a playful way to celebrate the season. From simple and sleek to glittery and glamorous, there’s a candy cane design for everyone.
Here are 12 different ways to wear this timeless look, with options that are perfect for a DIY manicure or a salon visit.
1. Classic Red and White Stripes
You can’t go wrong with the original. This design features crisp, diagonal red and white stripes that instantly bring to mind a classic peppermint stick. To get the look, start with a white base coat, then use thin striping tape to create perfectly even lines. Fill in the stripes with a glossy red polish, remove the tape, and finish with a clear top coat for a smooth, shiny finish. This look is timeless and works on any nail length, whether you wear it on all your fingers or as a single accent nail.
2. Glitter Candy Cane Tips
For a subtle touch of holiday sparkle, try a candy cane French manicure. Instead of stripes on the whole nail, focus the design on the tips. Start with a nude or sheer pink base to make your nails look longer. Then, use a red and white glitter polish to create angled stripes just on the tips. The glitter adds a touch of glam that’s perfect for parties. Just be sure to apply a couple of layers of top coat to seal in the glitter and make the surface smooth.
3. Green Accent Candy Canes
Give the classic red and white stripes a festive twist by adding green. Start with a white base and paint alternating diagonal stripes in red and green, leaving thin white lines in between each color. This brings in a classic Christmas color and looks great on its own or paired with other holiday nail art. For a little extra sparkle, try adding a thin line of gold glitter between the stripes.
4. Negative Space Candy Canes
Give the traditional candy cane design a modern, minimalist makeover with a negative space manicure. Instead of a solid base color, let your natural nail show through. Start with a clear base coat, then use striping tape to create diagonal sections. Paint your red and white stripes, then carefully remove the tape to reveal the bare nail underneath. This design feels light and airy and has a cool, contemporary vibe.
5. Candy Cane Ombre
Combine two trends in one with a candy cane ombre design. Use a makeup sponge to create a gradient that fades from red at the tips to white at the base. Once the gradient is dry, use a thin brush to add delicate stripes across the colors, with white stripes on the red part and red stripes on the white part. The result is a layered, dimensional look that’s eye-catching and festive.
6. Metallic Foil Candy Canes
Make a bold statement with metallic foil. Apply silver, gold, or even rose gold foil in diagonal stripes over a white or red base coat. The foil catches the light beautifully, giving your nails a luxurious, high-glam finish. You can create the stripes using a special foil transfer gel or nail adhesive. This look is perfect for holiday parties and New Year’s Eve.
7. Minimalist Candy Cane Accent Nail
If you prefer a more subtle look, try a minimalist accent nail. Paint most of your nails a solid holiday color like deep red, emerald green, or shimmery gold. On one or two accent nails, create a simple red and white candy cane stripe. This lets you enjoy the festive design without committing to a full manicure of stripes. It’s a great option for a clean, classic look with a seasonal twist.
8. Pastel Candy Cane Twist
For a softer, more whimsical take on the look, swap out the traditional red for a pastel color like blush pink, baby blue, or lavender. This creates a sweet, confectionery-inspired design that’s both playful and elegant. The lighter colors work especially well on shorter nails and give the look a fresh, modern feel.
9. Candy Cane Glitter Gradient
Create a layered, sparkling effect with a glitter gradient. Start with a white base and then use a red glitter polish to create a gradient from the tips to the middle of the nail. Once it’s dry, add a few thin white stripes over the glitter to give the impression of a candy cane. This design has a lot of depth and is a great way to incorporate glitter without it being overwhelming.
10. Matte Candy Cane Nails
Give your manicure a sophisticated edge with a matte finish. Paint your traditional red and white stripes, but instead of a glossy top coat, use a matte one. The velvety finish makes the colors look richer and gives the design a modern, high-fashion feel. For a cool contrast, you can even alternate matte and glossy stripes.
